Brisbane Roar have announced Mariel Hecher and Keeley Richards will retire from professional football following this weekend’s final round of the Ninja A-League season.
The Roar duo will play their last game when Brisbane visit second-placed Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Saturday afternoon.
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Hecher joined Roar ahead of the 2020-2021 season and the 32-year-old forward has since become a mainstay with four goals and four assists in 48 appearances for the club.
She has scored twice and supplied two assists in 18 games this season.
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“Retiring from football is never an easy decision, especially when you have been a part of a professional environment for a long time,” Hecher said.
“It becomes part of who you are and dictates how you live your life to enhance your performance. I am ready for the next stage after football to focus on full time work, have weekends off, and spend more time with family and friends.
“It was great being part of Brisbane Roar for the past five seasons. I have many beautiful memories, have met some incredible people and it will be a chapter that I will forever cherish.”
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Goalkeeper Richards swapped Canberra United for Brisbane after making her top-flight debut with the capital outfit in 2020.
Richards debuted for the Roar in Round 20 last season after American Jordan Silkowitz was recalled to her parent club in the United States.
This weekend, Richards will make her 10th appearance for Brisbane.
“Playing professional football has always been a dream of mine since I was a kid, and I honestly never thought I’d get to where I am” Richards said.
“The opportunity to play at this level for last five years has been truly incredible.
“I’m extremely grateful to Canberra United for giving me a chance and making my debut alongside such incredible players at Viking Park is a moment I’ll never forget.
“Being able to play my last two seasons at home for Brisbane Roar in front of family and friends has been a true privilege. The support from the fans and Brisbane community is unrivalled and I’m very grateful for everything.”
